Hyderabad is grappling with a severe drinking water scarcity. The city is facing a dire shortage of drinking water, with the issue especially prevalent in the West Corridor and suburban areas.
The situation has reached a critical point, evident in the daily struggle for water seen across the city. Instances of fights erupting at water tanker locations further highlight the severity of the problem, particularly impacting slums and suburbs.
Despite a supply of approximately 559.81 MGD (Million Gallons per Day) through five water sources, challenges persist. Interruptions in electricity supply, groundwater depletion, motor malfunctions, and low water pressure exacerbate the crisis. The current supply falls short of meeting the city’s escalating demand for drinking water.
Residents, forced to save water, express disbelief at the unprecedented situation. The meager water supply, often released with low pressure and reduced timing, necessitates careful storage and usage in barrels and drums. However, even these measures prove insufficient, leading many to rely on private tankers.
More than 6,500 water tankers are getting booked everyday in Hyderabad. In areas like Serilingampally Ayyappa Society, Manikonda, Puppalaguda, Jubilee Hills, and Banjara Hills, the demand for tankers is particularly acute. Residents lament the financial strain, with some reporting the need to purchase up to 120 tankers per month, further burdening their expenses.
As demand surges, tanker owners face mounting pressure to meet supply, resulting in escalated costs for residents.